A's claim Danny Valencia off waivers from Toronto Blue Jays

OAKLAND -- The A's grabbed infielder/outfielder Danny Valencia off waivers from Toronto on Monday and expect him to join the club on Tuesday.

Also, Oakland reinstated switch-pitcher Pat Venditte from the disabled list and optioned him to Triple-A Nashville.

Valencia primarily plays in left field and at third base, but he also has spent time at first base, second base and right fielder.

The 30-year-old veteran is hitting .296 this season, but the Blue Jays, who needed space on their 40-man roster after making several deals before last week's July 31 trade deadline, put him on the designated for assignment list Saturday. Previously he'd played with the Twins, Red Sox, Orioles and Royals.

He hit seven homers and had 29 RBI in 58 games for Toronto this season.

Venditte went on the disabled list with a strained right shoulder and had been on an injury rehabilitation assignment, getting two games with Class-A Stockton and Triple-A Nashville, He gave up no runs for the Sounds in back-to-back relief appearances Friday and Saturday.


(mercurynews.com)